Jarvis Cocker to narrate ABBA exhibition in London

Jarvis Cocker from English alternative rock band Pulp – musician, author, radio DJ and now exhibition narrator. Image: AFP/ Fred Tanneau

London’s Southbank Centre announced this week that its upcoming immersive ABBA exhibition will be narrated by English musician and former Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker.

“ABBA: Super Troupers” arrives in London next month, charting the band’s music, lyrics, creative process and influence in a guided exhibition featuring costumes, handwritten notes and sketches, music, instruments, personal photographs and more, all coming from Stockholm’s ABBA The Museum and private estates.

It has now been revealed that Cocker — musician, author and BBC Radio 6 Music presenter — will provide the show’s narration, lending his distinctive voice to an audio narrative written by journalist and documentary-maker Jude Rogers.

“I love ABBA. You love ABBA. My love began when my sister bought Arrival in 1976 and played it non-stop for the next six months. What’s your story? Why don’t we meet down at the Southbank Centre to compare notes? I would love that,” said Cocker in a statement.

Among the band’s contributions to be covered will be their unique multi-layered sound and their pioneering approach to music video, while theatrical backdrops  — of a hotel room, music studio and disco — will be used to recreate significant events in the band’s history while offering an immersive experience for fans.

“ABBA: Super Troupers” runs from Dec. 14, 2017 through April 29, 2018. JB

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